Your PharmD Bestie Podcast

About Your PharmD Bestie Podcast

Your PharmD Bestie is a podcast under the Pharm So Hard Network, produced by Jimmy Pruitt. Hosted by pharmacist Alina Luk, the show provides an authentic and unfiltered look into the pharmacy profession, bridging the gap between students, residents, and practicing professionals. Alina Luk’s journey through pharmacy school and residency is filled with valuable lessons and experiences that she eagerly shares with her listeners. Through personal stories, professional insights, and practical advice, Alina explores topics ranging from navigating pharmacy school and residency to overcoming challenges and celebrating achievements as a practicing pharmacist. With guest contributions from preceptors, fellow professionals, and students, this podcast is a go-to resource for anyone passionate about pharmacy.

Publisher

Pharm So Hard Network

Category

health & fitness

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

6 Dec 2024

Latest episode

29 Jun 2026

Latest episodes

18 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   29 Jun 2026

   Episode 18: Mastering the Patient Workup: What You Need to Know + Other Clinical Care Tips

   In this episode of Your PharmD Bestie, host Alina Luk, PharmD, is joined by William Xu, PharmD, for a practical discussion on one of the most intimidating yet essential clinical skills in pharmacy training: working up a patient. From identifying the chief complaint and prioritizing active problems to interpreting labs, reviewing medications, and making meaningful clinical interventions, Alina and William break down their step-by-step approach to inpatient patient workups. They share how their perspectives evolved from pharmacy students focused on memorizing every detail to residents learning how to prioritize what matters most for patient care. The conversation explores common medication-related interventions pharmacists make, including renal and hepatic dose adjustments, IV-to-PO conversions, antibiotic de-escalation, monitoring for adverse effects, and anticipating next steps in a patient's treatment plan. They also discuss the transition from student to resident responsibilities, balancing autonomy with asking questions, and developing the clinical reasoning needed to support recommendations to the healthcare team. Beyond patient workups, Alina and William share practical tips for staying organized on busy rotations, managing competing priorities, communicating effectively with preceptors and interdisciplinary teams, and avoiding the pressure to know everything immediately. Whether you're a pharmacy student preparing for APPE rotations, a new resident adjusting to clinical practice, or a pharmacist looking to refine your approach to patient care, this episode offers practical strategies, reassurance, and reminders that clinical confidence is built through repetition, feedback, and experience.

2. 

   11 Jun 2026

   Episode 17: Studying for the CPJE & NAPLEX

   In this episode of Your PharmD Bestie, host Alina Luk, PharmD, is joined by David Nguyen, PharmD, to break down the realities of preparing for two of pharmacy’s biggest licensure exams: the CPJE and NAPLEX. From choosing study resources and creating a realistic study schedule to managing stress and avoiding burnout, they share practical advice and personal insights to help pharmacy graduates navigate this challenging season with confidence. David reflects on his own experience studying for both exams, including what strategies worked best, common mistakes students make, and how to balance studying with work, life responsibilities, and the emotional pressure that often comes with licensure preparation. Together, Alina and David discuss how to approach difficult topics, build long-term retention, and stay motivated during weeks of intense studying. The conversation also dives into mindset and self-care during exam season. They talk about overcoming self-doubt, dealing with exam anxiety, and recognizing when taking a break is actually productive. Alina and David emphasize the importance of finding a study routine that works for you rather than comparing yourself to others, while also sharing tips for staying disciplined without becoming overwhelmed. Whether you’re just starting to prepare for the NAPLEX and CPJE or are deep into your study journey, this episode offers relatable encouragement, practical strategies, and reassurance that you’re not alone in the process. Disclaimer: This video was filmed approximately one year ago, so our current positions and circumstances may have changed; however, our advice remains the same.

3. 

   23 Mar 2026

   Episode 16. Time Management for Busy Residents: Finding Balance + Self-Care Tips

   In this episode of Your PharmD Bestie, host Alina Luk, PharmD, RPh, MBAc, is joined by Sofia Rodriguez, PharmD, MS, to tackle one of the biggest challenges in residency: time management. From juggling clinical responsibilities and presentations to keeping up with research projects and personal life, they dive into practical strategies to help residents stay organized, efficient, and balanced. Sofia shares her experience transitioning into residency—including moving across the country—and reflects on what surprised her most about the pace and demands of training. Together, they discuss how to build a sustainable routine, prioritize tasks effectively, and use helpful apps and tools to stay on track without feeling overwhelmed. The conversation also highlights the importance of self-care and recognizing early signs of burnout. Alina and Sofia offer actionable tips for checking in with yourself, setting boundaries, and maintaining your well-being throughout the year. They wrap up with advice for students preparing to start residency, focusing on how to set yourself up for success before day one. Whether you’re in the middle of residency or getting ready to begin, this episode offers relatable insights and practical tools to help you manage your time, protect your energy, and find balance in a demanding season.

4. 

   10 Mar 2026

   Episode 15. Residency Projects: How to Choose and Execute a Great Project

   In this episode of Your PharmD Bestie, host Alina Luk, PharmD, sits down with Abigail Klein, PharmD to discuss one of the most important—and often overwhelming—parts of pharmacy residency: the research project. Together, they break down how residents can thoughtfully choose a project, set realistic goals, and navigate the many moving parts involved in completing a meaningful study during a busy residency year. Abby shares insights from her emergency medicine–focused research examining antibiotic discordance in urinary tract infections caused by ESBL-producing organisms. Throughout the conversation, they explore practical strategies for evaluating potential projects, including assessing feasibility, understanding timelines, selecting supportive preceptors, and minimizing unnecessary variables. They also discuss common challenges residents encounter, such as coordinating multi-site collaborations, navigating IRB approval, managing data collection, and avoiding “scope creep” that can derail a project’s timeline. Alina and Abby reflect on lessons learned from their own experiences—including projects that didn’t go as planned—and share actionable advice to help future residents stay proactive, organized, and adaptable. Whether you’re preparing to start residency or already working on your research project, this episode offers practical guidance to help you execute a successful project while developing valuable research and communication skills.

5. 

   24 Feb 2026

   Episode 14. Half-Way Mark Check-In

   In this reflective episode of Your PharmD Bestie, host Alina Luk, PharmD sits down with Gerald Loyola, PharmD for a candid six-month residency check-in. Gerald shares honest reflections on the highs, challenges, and unexpected lessons from the first half of residency, offering reassurance to residents who may be questioning their progress. They discuss what it truly means to develop clinical confidence, how growth happens through repetition and discomfort, and how learning to receive feedback constructively can accelerate both personal and professional development. The conversation also explores navigating different residency rotations, adjusting to new expectations with each service, and balancing multiple responsibilities at once. In the Q&A segment, Gerald shares practical strategies for staying organized while managing projects, presentations, and clinical duties. Whether you’re mid-residency or preparing to start, this episode is a reminder that growth isn’t always linear—and that feeling stretched often means you’re evolving into the clinician you’re meant to become.

6. 

   9 Feb 2026

   Episode 13: Applying for PGY2 (Early Commit Process)

   In this informative episode of Your PharmD Bestie, host Alina Luk, PharmD sits down with Parker Woodruff, PharmD, a PGY1 acute care pharmacy resident at UC Davis Health, to break down the PGY2 application process—specifically the early commit pathway within the UC system. Parker shares his firsthand experience early committing into a PGY2 critical care residency, offering clarity on what PGY2 training entails and how it differs from PGY1. Together, they walk through the structure and timeline of the systemwide early commitment process, key differences from the traditional ASHP match, and the pros and cons applicants should consider when deciding which path is right for them. The conversation also dives into when to start thinking about PGY2, how to prepare strong letters of intent and recommendation letters, and why self-reflection and career clarity are especially important given the early timeline. Parker reflects on navigating uncertainty early in residency, weighing different specialties, and ultimately choosing critical care as the best fit for his long-term goals. This episode offers practical advice, reassurance, and real-world insight for pharmacy residents who are considering specialization, feeling unsure early in PGY1, or deciding whether early commit aligns with their career plans.

7. 

   19 Jan 2026

   Episode 12. Taking a Gap Year Unexpectedly

   Host Alina Luk, PharmD, discusses her unexpected gap year after pharmacy school, sharing her emotional journey of navigating uncertainty and mental health challenges, and offering reassurance that setbacks do not define a career in this personal episode.

8. 

   19 Dec 2025

   Episode 11: Things to Consider for your LOI

   Host Alina Luk, PharmD, discusses key elements of a residency Letter of Intent, providing insights on structure, content, and common mistakes to help applicants write effectively; this is a solo episode.

9. 

   21 Nov 2025

   Episode 10. Things to Consider for your CV

   Host Alina Luk, PharmD, discusses key considerations for pharmacy students and new practitioners to build a compelling CV that highlights strengths and organizes experiences for maximum impact.

10. 

    8 Nov 2025

    Episode 8. The Residency Playbook: Tips, Tricks, and Tales

    Host Alina Luk, PharmD, interviews Joey Nguyen, PharmD, about the pharmacy residency application process, offering listeners practical advice for building a strong application and navigating residency life.

11. 

    7 Nov 2025

    Episode 9. A Glimpse at Fellowship

    Keya Patel, PharmD, informs Alina Luk, PharmD, about pharmaceutical industry fellowships, clarifying myths and offering advice on timelines, networking, and interview preparation in this interview.

12. 

    22 Jul 2025

    Episode 7. Residency Process: Choosing the Appropriate Residency Program

    Host Alina Luk, PharmD, explores the residency process, providing listeners with strategies for selecting the right program and navigating interviews effectively in this episode.

13. 

    1 Apr 2025

    Episode 6. First Quarter Down: Residency Check-In

    In Episode 6 of Your PharmD Bestie, host Alina Luk, PharmD, sits down with Lydia Shen, PharmD, for a candid residency check-in after the first quarter. They reflect on the highs and lows of transitioning into residency, from adjusting to a new environment to overcoming unexpected challenges. Lydia shares her experience with culture shock, her first impressions of UC Davis, and key takeaways from the past few months. They also discuss personal wins, milestones, and strategies for staying focused in the next quarter. Whether you're in residency or preparing for the journey ahead, this episode offers relatable insights and encouragement to keep pushing forward.

14. 

    14 Feb 2025

    Episode 5. Navigating Residency Applications: Tips, Tricks, and Lessons

    In Episode 5 of Your PharmD Bestie, host Alina Luk, PharmD, walks you through the residency application process step-by-step. From creating your PhORCAS account to requesting transcripts and letters of recommendation, Alina shares practical advice to make this daunting process more manageable. Learn how to organize your CV, craft a strong personal statement, and balance the demands of rotations and applications. Whether you’re just starting your pharmacy school journey or gearing up to apply, this episode is packed with valuable insights to set you up for success.

15. 

    27 Jan 2025

    Episode 4. Pharmacy School Diaries: Memories, Lessons, and Growth

    In Episode 4 of Your PharmD Bestie, host Alina Luk, PharmD, sits down with her former UCSF pharmacy school classmates, Alison Newens, PharmD, and Selena Li, PharmD, to reminisce about their journey through pharmacy school. They share insights on the academic rigor, the transition to residency, and navigating personal growth. From favorite courses and challenging rotations to the power of camaraderie and learning from precepting, this episode is packed with relatable stories, valuable lessons, and advice for pharmacy students and residents alike. 00:00 Introduction 02:24 Academic Reflections 10:08 Transition to Rotations 24:46 Precepting Perspectives 36:47 Favorite Pharmacy School Memories 42:10 Navigating Challenges and Growth 48:47 Advice for Pharmacy Students 55:25 Conclusion

16. 

    6 Jan 2025

    Episode 3. Conquering Pharmacy School OSCEs and Exams: Strategies with Valerie Htun, PharmD

    In Episode 3 of Your PharmD Bestie, host Alina Luk, PharmD is joined by Valerie Htun, PharmD from UCSF to discuss their pharmacy school experience, with a special focus on OSCEs (Objective Structured Clinical Exams) and exam preparation. They share valuable insights on handling academic challenges, maintaining work-life balance, and navigating the pharmacy school application process. Drawing from their experiences at UCSF, they offer practical advice for current and prospective pharmacy students. 00:00 Introduction 03:15 Understanding OSCEs 09:04 Overcoming Exam Nerves 16:09 Pharmacy School Exams 21:17 Handling Academic Challenges 27:24 Pharmacy School Applications 33:00 Advice for second-year undergraduates 38:36 Gap Year Discussion 45:36 Final thoughts

17. 

    19 Dec 2024

    Episode 2. Rx for Success: Navigating the Pharmacy School Application Process

    In this episode of Your PharmD Bestie, Alina dives into the essentials of preparing for pharmacy school applications and interviews. Drawing from personal experiences, she shares practical tips on managing stress, setting realistic goals, and crafting a standout application. From understanding application requirements to mastering the STAR method for interviews, this episode is packed with actionable advice for aspiring pharmacy students. Whether you’re applying to pharmacy school or tackling any professional application process, this episode offers insights to help you shine.

18. 

    6 Dec 2024

    Episode 1. Meet Your PharmD Bestie

    Welcome to Your PharmD Bestie, a brand-new addition to the Pharm So Hard Network! Hosted by Alina Luk, PharmD, this inaugural episode dives into the vision behind the podcast. Alina shares her journey from pharmacy school to residency applications, offering a raw and relatable perspective. This podcast aims to guide pharmacy students, aspiring residents, and healthcare professionals through pharmacy school challenges, residency prep, and beyond. Discover tips on OSCEs, exam prep, and navigating gap years while building a supportive community. Tune in, subscribe, and join Alina as she empowers you on your pharmacy journey!

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

1 ratings

Podcast Authority Score: 5 / 100

A composite of feed quality, social presence, YouTube performance and engagement. Read the methodology.

Quality

10

Social presence

0

YouTube

0

Engagement

0

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Guest appearances

Books guests

Based on episode analysis; this does not confirm that the show is currently accepting guests.